Approaching the Standards, Volume 1: E-flat Instruments Book & Online Audio

Hill strips away the intimidation factor by pairing professional-caliber recordings with genuinely useful scaffolding. The transcription opportunities and composer insights transform passive listening into active learning, while the tune selection hits that sweet spot between recognizable standards and vehicles that actually teach something about jazz language.

Working through these arrangements feels collaborative rather than prescriptive. The rhythm section sits in the pocket with genuine swing and pocket feel, creating the sensation of playing in an actual small group rather than following along with a backing track.

This collection serves students who have basic instrument proficiency but little to no improvisation experience, as well as players looking to build a more systematic approach to soloing. Jazz directors building ensemble chops or developing soloists will find the progression and structure particularly useful.

• Listen through the demo tracks first without the book. Get the melody and groove in your ear before you worry about reading.
• Slow down the online audio using your playback software. Starting at 70-80% tempo removes the pressure of keeping up and lets you focus on phrasing and articulation.
• Transcribe one solo completely before trying to improvise. This builds internalized vocabulary faster than any written explanation.
• Play along with the rhythm section tracks multiple times on the same tune. Repetition builds confidence and helps you develop a personal sound within the changes.

Use Volume 1 as the foundation for a semester-long improvisation unit, allowing time for transcription work and repeated play-alongs. You can also thread individual tunes into concert programming, featuring student soloists against the professional recordings to showcase emerging talent.

• Navigating 12-bar blues form and understanding harmonic movement
• Phrasing vocabulary specific to each tune's melodic and harmonic language
• Listening and transcription of professional jazz solos
• Trading phrases and responding to the rhythm section
• Building melodic independence while maintaining harmonic awareness